CPRE Leicestershire

The public has free access to Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood which were given to the County with the stipulation that they should remain as open spaces and their wildlife be preserved. This valuable amenity is within easy access of Leicestershire's main towns but is rapidly becoming an isolated oasis amid surrounding development. Visitors also enjoy the gentle intimacy of the Vale of Belvoir to the north-east and the pastoral charm of the river Wreake. The Soar Navigation and Grantham and Grand Union Canals wind their way through Leicestershire's tranquil landscapes offering much to wildlife and heritage enthusiasts. Yet sadly this rich natural heritage can no longer be taken for granted. The Limestone belt to the east has distinctive stone villages, but there is a threat of increased quarrying for cement at Ketton. Quarrying is also a feature of the Limestone outcrop at Breedon and there is large scale quarrying for road stone in the Charnwood area. Historically, the coalfields in West have led to that part of the county being associated with heavy industry and now transport with the presence of East Midlands Airport and the M1.